A Year in Haste – 2020 with MuTuYuTian

A Year in Haste – 2020 with MuTuYuTian

Entering December, I started planning the year-end summary. Writing it down is for the sake of remembering through forgetting.

January, Shanghai entered its coldest time of the year. Da Bao started school. On sunny days, I took Xiao Bao to the nearby Thames Town for a stroll.

Guangfulin Cultural Relics Park is not far from home, a place we deeply love. Our daughter bought us annual passes so we could visit anytime. One rare day when Da Bao finished homework early, we wandered inside.

As Spring Festival approached, I packed my camera and started from Yuyuan Garden to find the flavor of old Shanghai's New Year. Red lanterns hung high at the City God Temple; the Yuyuan buildings were decorated with lights; the New Year market buzzed with crowds; everyone was immersed in pre-festival joy.

The Bund, usually packed with people, was now much quieter. A group of elementary school students, led by their teacher, joyfully danced.

Nanjing Road was completely covered in festive atmosphere, becoming a sea of red. Shops were crowded with shoppers. On the streets, there were no masks, no panic—people's faces shone with festive smiles.

As Spring Festival approached, the COVID-19 pandemic began to spread. "Wear a mask, avoid crowds, wash hands frequently" became people's guidelines. After that, staying "cooped up" at home became normal.

On the third day of the lunar New Year, we went grocery shopping. The vegetable shelves at RT-Mart were empty.

During days at home, all kinds of creative activities emerged. Most were food competitions—Chinese, Western, all trying to satisfy taste buds in different ways.

Occasionally, the kids would put on a Hanfu fashion show. I often think the pandemic gave us an opportunity for family reunion. Gathering together as a family was something to look forward to, a joy.

At the end of the month, we couldn't resist the temptation of sunshine and fresh air. We put on masks, took Duoduo, and went to the nearby Shuyuan Garden for some "fresh air."

February 4 was the beginning of spring and also our daughter's birthday. This year we couldn't go out to eat, so we made a birthday cake at home. It might not have looked great, but its significance was extraordinary.

The 17th was originally the start of school for Shanghai's primary and secondary students, but it was postponed due to the pandemic. A ceremony for singing the national anthem and raising the flag was held online. Momo got up early, faced the computer screen, saluted and sang the anthem.

The children began studying at home. Besides studying, drawing became a must—so serious they were!

Entering March, our daughter started going to work; Da Bao began attending online classes at home. The sun was bright, everything was getting better.

On the weekend, the weather was fine. The family drove to Tianjing Lake for a spring outing. There were quite a few visitors. Photos with masks recorded the authentic life of this special period.

April, the domestic pandemic control kept improving. Walking in the park became routine. Momo still had a lot of online homework. Every day, I took Huahua and led Duoduo for a walk.

During Qingming holiday, the family drove to Riverside Park. Tulips had withered, but azaleas were in full bloom. Green grass covered the ground, and many tents were set up. Many people removed their masks, taking deep breaths of fresh air.

Luoyang peonies had reached their peak bloom. This year I couldn't go back to photograph peonies. I dug out old peony photos and posted them on my Moments to satisfy my craving.

Due to the pandemic, I hadn't had a haircut for over three months. I found a barbershop with good hygiene. The whole process didn't require removing the mask—this was probably the most unusual haircut ever.

On the 25th, MuTuYuTian and several classmates in Shanghai arranged a gathering on the Bund. I went along as photographer. There were few tourists on Nanjing Road, only locals exercising on the street.

These classmates were all living in Shanghai while taking care of grandchildren. Getting together during the pandemic was not ideal, but we took a group photo with masks—an unforgettable memento.

Though not many tourists on the Bund viewing platform, there was already a sign of vitality. Hoping the pandemic would disappear soon and people return to normal life.

The newly built Civic Square had green grass and blooming flowers. On the weekend, the family drove there. Taking off masks and breathing deeply felt divine.

Shanghai Chenshan Botanical Garden reopened. Online reservation, health code scanning, temperature check. The family wandered on Rose Island, surrounded by blooming flowers and joyful laughter.

The rose corridor at Guangfulin Country Park had excellent roses, with few people, and we could even bring Duoduo for a walk. It became a frequent place for us.

In early May, we could dine in at restaurants. After the meal, the whole family visited the newly built Cultural and Creative Park. The kids were so happy!

Guangfulin Cultural Relics Park also reopened, but unfortunately all indoor areas and temples were closed. We picked a good day and went in to take photos.

Mid-May, after ending my half-year on-duty shift, I took the high-speed train home. Mornings and evenings, I still walked by Lingbo Lake, enjoying its tranquility and beauty.

Longmen Grottoes offered free admission to seniors over 60 nationwide. We picked a good day and revisited the site with MuTuYuTian. It had been nearly ten years since my last visit. We took a detour through the newly built "Ancient Street"; even Luoyang locals wouldn't recognize their hometown.

June was the world of lotus flowers. Every day I got up early and went out late with MuTuYuTian to the National Garden and Sui-Tang City Site Botanical Garden to photograph lotus. A few black swans swam among the lotus, adding vitality to the pond.

We hadn't been to the Lavender Manor for a long time; it was said many new attractions had been added. We drove there, wandering in the sea of flowers, searching for past memories.

Xingluo Lake is a garden green space on Luoyang's central axis. Clear lake water, dense vegetation, wooden walkways connecting pavilions, towers, small bridges, and flowing water. It's a place where MuTuYuTian and I enjoy walking.

Jiuzhou Pool was the royal pool garden of Sui-Tang Luoyang city. The site was originally within the Luoyang Glass Factory. Now part of the landscape has been restored. We went with MuTuYuTian to join the fun.

At the end of the month, we visited the Colorful Grand Canyon. The sun was scorching; we climbed the mountain steps all the way to the top.

Entering July, the weather got hotter. I heard the pedestrian street of Guangzhou Market had been nicely renovated. Taking advantage of the morning cool, we went to check it out.

Xiaolangdi's annual sand discharge began. I made an appointment with photographer friends to capture the turbulent waves.

I had always wanted to travel the big loop of Qinghai and Gansu. On July 20, under bright sunshine, a group of ten of us set off from Luoyang by car, starting a 5,000-kilometer grand crossing.

Maijishan is one of China's four great grottoes. I had been here many years ago. A fine drizzle fell as we stood on the midway plank road, witnessing the magnificent "Maiji misty rain."

The rapeseed flowers by Qinghai Lake were in full bloom. We stopped to rest by the roadside. At the end of the flower sea lay the vast lake, with blue sky and white clouds, yellow flowers and green water—a series of natural beauties.

Chaka Salt Lake—I had already visited twice. I accompanied photographer friends again. The weather was overcast, with occasional drizzle. My friends searched for their targets, walking along the lake to shoot.

Dachaidan has an Emerald Lake, a very beautiful place. Unfortunately, the weather was overcast; we drove there to scout. When we reached the lakeshore, clouds parted and the sun came out, revealing blue sky and white clouds. After we finished shooting, clouds gathered again, and it became overcast. Only about an hour—luck, you have to believe it!

Dongtai Jinaier Lake is called "China's Maldives" by Chinese people. The blue water seemed to have some milk added—such purity, such elegance—I had only seen it at Kanas Lake.

Wusute Water Yadan is 27 kilometers from Dongtai Jinaier Lake. The vast water surface was dotted with earthen hills. We walked along the lake, looking for high points and changing angles to capture rare scenes.

Starting from Dachaidan, hundreds of kilometers of uninhabited area stretched, with continuous Yadan landforms, barren of vegetation. We traveled among the Yadan hills, recording every detail.

Aiken Spring might be the most peculiar spot on this route. Thick water columns gushed from underground, spreading on the surface. Mineral-rich spring water, after years of precipitation and accumulation, formed geological wonders of red and yellow, comparable to the Grand Prismatic Spring in Yellowstone.

Mangya Emerald Lake was also very beautiful—pits left from salt mining. The salt field had built a large T-shaped platform in the scenic area for visitors to walk and take photos.

Leaving Qinghai for Dunhuang, a place I had visited many times. I got up early, climbed Mingsha Mountain, and took an overhead shot of Crescent Moon Spring in morning light.

Jiayuguan is the western gate of the Great Wall. We had passed it several times, but MuTuYuTian had never been inside. We entered the scenic area, stood on the Jiayuguan city wall, and imagined the clashing of weapons and warhorses in ancient times—how awe-inspiring!

Zhangye Danxia was a must, though I had been twice before. Each time offered different scenery and different gains.

MuTuYuTian and I climbed Zhuo'er Mountain for the third time. Same season, same view: green grass, yellow rapeseed flowers, red Danxia cliffs, snow-capped mountains.

Menyuan rapeseed flowers were a bit faded; the bright yellow was gone. Standing on the Yuanshan viewing platform, surrounded by snow mountains as always, still feeling relaxed and joyful.

On the way back, we visited Kongtong Mountain, a Taoist sacred site with beautiful scenery.

August, Momo attended a summer camp in Zhengzhou. Taking the chance to pick up Momo, our daughter brought Xiao Bao back. We visited the old town, Longmen, and of course had mutton soup and ate Jiang noodles. It was a challenge for the two Shanghai kids—they pouted so much!

It happened to be Huahua's birthday. Wishing Xiao Bao a happy birthday and healthy growth.

The children returned to Shanghai. MuTuYuTian and I began our photography journey around Luoyang.

Luoyang's Erlitou Xia Dynasty Site is the capital of the middle and late Xia Dynasty, known in academia as the "Earliest China." The Erlitou Site Museum has rich collections, a very worthwhile place to visit.

White Horse Temple is the first official Buddhist temple after Buddhism was introduced to China. It is revered as the "Source of Buddhism."

The Mausoleum of Emperor Guangwu of Han is in my hometown, a place called "Liu Xiu's Tomb" since childhood. The ancient pines and cypresses remain; the earthen mound nestles by the Yellow River, listening day and night to the roar of the waves.

The Hall of Heaven and Mingtang Scenic Area is one of the most important landscapes of Sui-Tang Luoyang City, the place where Empress Wu Zetian governed, worshipped, and lived. Walking among the magnificent rebuilt structures on the original site, we imagine the prosperity of Luoyang in the Tang Dynasty.

Luoyang people love soup. We particularly like Sandan mutton soup at Longmen. After the soup, we visit Longmen Grottoes—a half-day itinerary. From West Hill to East Hill, from Xiangshan Temple to Bai Garden, our footprints are everywhere.

September, the long-discussed trip to Shanxi and Shaanxi finally materialized. Five photographer friends rented a nine-seat Mercedes with a private driver; the rest was a luxurious journey.

Xiangfu Imperial City is very close to Luoyang. MuTuYuTian and I had visited before. We entered this fortress again to feel its former glory.

Guoyu Ancient Town is adjacent to Xiangfu Imperial City. We entered through the east gate, strolled through streets and alleys, looked up at the towering Yulou, and explored the history of this "honeycomb city."

Dazhai is a model in our generation's hearts. We climbed Hutou Mountain, entered Langwozhang, wandered between the old Dazhai houses and the new village, witnessing the earth-shaking changes of Dazhai over decades—our wish was fulfilled!

Shanxi has many compound houses; the Qiao Family Compound is especially famous. Walking through its courtyards, we deeply felt the wealth and broad-mindedness of Shanxi merchants.

Jinci Temple is the top tourist attraction in Shanxi. The huge Jinci Park surrounds the ancient temple: leaning cypress from the Zhou Dynasty, lush locust trees from the Tang Dynasty, ancient buildings arranged, springs gurgling—it's a museum of ancient architecture.

In Shanxi's modern history, Yan Xishan played a significant role. He fought against Japan, opposed Chiang Kai-shek, and opposed the Communists—a multi-faced political figure. His former residence is located in Hebian Village, Dingxiang County, a complex of Chinese and Western architecture.

Mount Wutai is one of China's five great Buddhist mountains. We climbed to the top of Bodhisattva Summit, overlooking the colorful and sacred realm of Mount Wutai; paid homage to Xiantong Temple, marveling at the splendor of the Bronze Hall. Entering Tayuan Temple, we looked up at the Great White Pagoda, feeling the infinite power of Buddhism; visited Wuye Temple, seeing the flourishing incense, and realized that turning back is the shore. Guangzong Temple, Shuxiang Temple, Shancai Cave—we visited each to experience the breadth and greatness of Buddhism.

Hanging Temple is located on the cliff of Cuiping Peak on the west side of Jinlong Gorge of Mount Heng. It is a unique temple that integrates Buddhism, Taoism, and Confucianism. The main hall stands aloft, facing the void; plank roads fly across, connecting head and tail. Walking on the suspended plank road, with deep valleys below, our legs couldn't help trembling.

Yungang Grottoes in Datong is one of China's three great grottoes. Over 20 years later, we entered the scenic area again, but could not see the grottoes. Newly built squares, temples, lakes, and green spaces separated the grottoes two kilometers away. Walking through these unfamiliar places, we felt a bit lost.

I had been to Datong many times but never properly walked through the old city. The old city's bell and drum towers, four-sided archways, Great Mosque, Chunyang Palace, Shanhua Temple, Huayan Temple, and the old city wall are all worth visiting. "Above-ground cultural relics look to Shanxi"—Datong is an excellent illustration.

Yingxian Wooden Pagoda remained the same, but the surroundings had changed: streets were renovated, gardens surrounded the scenic area. But the pagoda could no longer be climbed—an eternal regret.

We had passed under Yanmen Pass many times but never had time to go up. This time, we headed straight to the scenic area, passed through the pass, climbed the beacon tower, and watched the Great Wall winding through the mountains, imagining the cruelty and tenacity of defending against foreign invaders.

I never imagined that in Ningwu County, Shanxi, there is a natural 10,000-year-old ice cave. Even in hot summer, the cave remains frozen: ice waterfalls, ice pillars, ice caps—spectacular.

Laoniuwan in Pianguan County was once a mecca for photographers. The ancient Great Wall plunges from the ridge straight to the Yellow River, known as the place where the Yellow River and the Great Wall shake hands. The ancient forts and villages along the Yellow River are common subjects in photographers' lenses.

Leaving Shanxi, crossing the Yellow River, we entered Fugu County in Shaanxi, where a prefecture city from the Five Dynasties period stands on a stone hill on the west bank of the Yellow River. Climbing the steep steps, historical imprints were all around.

Shaanxi built a road along the Yellow River, starting from Qiangtou Township in Fugu County and ending in Weinan City, over 800 kilometers long, linking many tourist attractions. We drove from Fugu County to Jia County, enjoying the "heavenly books" and "divine paintings" along the way.

Jia County's Xianglu Temple is very small but has a unique location—built on a cliff by the Yellow River. Not far from the cliff stands a stone pillar over 20 meters high, about 15 meters in circumference, called "Xianglu Peak." On its top is a Guanyin temple, connected by a 5-meter-long, 1-meter-wide sky bridge.

Yulin is an important town in northern Shaanxi. North of the old city is Zhenbeitai, south is Lingxiao Pagoda, and on the central axis are six towers, all Ming and Qing architecture. "South pagoda, north platform, middle old city; six towers straddle the street, famous under heaven"—that's its true portrayal.

Yulin's Red Stone Gorge is also famous. Historically, it was a place for frontier soldiers and literati to express emotions. Numerous cliff carvings from various dynasties have become a treasure trove of calligraphy art.

Jingbian's Wave Valley has become very popular in recent years. Scenic Areas No. 1 and No. 2 are closed, leaving only the water Danxia for tourists. Facilities are poor, management chaotic, and large numbers of tourists walk and take photos on the Danxia, destroying landscapes formed over millions of years—heartbreaking.

Yucha Grand Canyon also developed in recent years. Heaven blessed us: after heavy rain the previous day, the next day turned clear with blue sky and white clouds. We walked through the most beautiful Huamugou twice, looking for the best spots to photograph.

Qiankun Bay is known as the first bay of the Yellow River, with a curve exceeding 320 degrees. We shuttled between three viewpoints, changing positions to capture its shape.

The big locust tree in Hongtong County is said to be the starting point of our ancestors' migration. While everyone seeks their roots, I always thought it was a beautiful legend. But when I actually entered the migration historical site, I realized it was all true history. I walked into the Ancestor Worship Hall and offered incense to our forebears.

October is another most beautiful season in Luoyang. Yishui Youyuan is a newly built green park in the Yibin New District. The pink muhly grass there is extraordinarily beautiful, attracting many people for photos.

Wangcheng Park's annual chrysanthemum exhibition opened. The huge chrysanthemum sculptures added much color to the autumn park.

The Sui-Tang Site Botanical Garden displayed brilliant autumn colors: red maple leaves, colorful Chinese tallow trees. MuTuYuTian and I walked and photographed, enjoying the pleasant autumn sunshine.

Laocheng Tiekou Lane is a red revolutionary lane. The former Luoyang Office of the Eighth Route Army is located there. The red culture pedestrian street had just opened; we walked through the lane, receiving red revolutionary education.

Luoyang Shan-Shaan Guild Hall was built during the Kangxi and Yongzheng reigns of the Qing Dynasty. It was a meeting and social venue for merchants from Shanxi and Shaanxi in Luoyang. The grand and rustic building complex is one of the best-preserved early Qing architectural groups in Luoyang.

"Bronze Camel Evening Rain" is one of Luoyang's eight scenic views. Walking through the restored alleys, we imagine the prosperity of this international trade market in the Sui and Tang dynasties.

Luoyi Ancient City remains lively. The Wenfeng Pagoda stands tall. Crossing the Zhuangyuan Bridge, on the bustling commercial street, many young people in Hanfu were leisurely taking photos.

Late October, I arrived in Shanghai, starting a new on-duty life.

Both children were in school. Mornings were our free time. We had annual passes to Guangfulin Cultural Relics Park, so we could go for walks anytime.

Thames Town was our frequent walking spot. We loved its exotic atmosphere: British-style buildings, tall church spires, fine coffee shops, and winding rivers.

Chenshan Botanical Garden was also a favorite: cherry blossoms in spring, roses in summer, colorful leaves in autumn, greenhouses in winter, accompanied by seasonally blooming flowers—always a vibrant garden.

Sheshan is in Songjiang, less than 100 meters above sea level, but it's the highest mountain on Shanghai's land. We easily climbed up, visited the ancient observatory, beautiful hilltop church, and Xiudao Zhe Pagoda. Walking along tree-lined mountain paths, surrounded by lush greenery, we felt a quietness far from the city.

Occasionally, we drove to Zhujiajiao, Shanghai's most beautiful ancient town. Winding ancient streets, shops lining both sides, dense river networks, many small bridges, especially the Fangsheng Bridge, proudly spanning the wide river.

November, Shanghai's climate was pleasant. Every weekend, MuTuYuTian and I still went to the riverside green space along the Huangpu River to continue our walking plan.

Sometimes we went to Pudong, strolling on the circular skywalk in Lujiazui. Tall buildings, dense flower beds—walking among them, you truly feel the prosperity of a modern metropolis.

The Bund viewing platform is always my favorite—it's the window of Shanghai. The scenery of Lujiazui remains, but the people and views in the frame change.

I hadn't been to Shanghai Botanical Garden for a long time. Seeing photos posted by netizens, I couldn't resist going for another tour.

On weekends, the whole family went to a nearby country park, where we could set up tents, hang swings, sit on the grass and bask in the sun—a beautiful autumn enjoyment.

I had been to many old streets in Shanghai but never made a systematic tour. We started from Gao'an Road, walked along Hunan Road, Wukang Road, Anfu Road to Central Urumqi Road, then from Fuxing Middle Road to Fenyang Road, continuing along Huaihai Middle Road, Baoqing Road, South Urumqi Road.

Entering December, the weather turned overcast, with less and less sunshine. Picking up and dropping off the children, taking care of their daily routines became part of our life.

On good weather days, we still went to Guangfulin Cultural Relics Park. There are too many things we seek there. Historically, northern and southern civilizations met and collided here, giving birth to Guangfulin culture, so it is also called the "Root of Shanghai."

Thames Town is where we take walks. On clear days, sometimes clusters of white clouds appear. We take a few photos with our phones and share them on Moments.

MuTuYuTian especially loves Shanghai's old streets. We set off again: from Yongjia Road, along Taiyuan Road, Dongping Road to Taojiang Road, from Yueyang Road to Jianguo West Road, then to South Urumqi Road, then along Hengshan Road all the way. Still tall trees shading the streets, still rows of western-style houses.

Shanghai's winter came a bit late this year. Entering mid-December, maple leaves were still red, ginkgo leaves yellow—an autumnal flavor everywhere. We chased the autumn colors, enjoying this rare winter palette.

Goodbye, 2020; Hello, 2021!